Local authority ABSs need “clear rationale”
Local authorities must have a “really clear rationale” before setting up ABSs to generate extra income, a leading public services lawyer has warned. Potential problems included conflicts of interest, confidentiality and indemnity insurance.
Government rules out major reform to legal regulation
There is to be no fundamental rethink of the regulatory regime for the legal profession, the Ministry of Justice announced today. Minister Shailesh Vara also specifically ruled out any change to the list of reserved legal activities.
SRA signals fresh approach to regulation
The Solicitors Regulation Authority has signalled a fresh approach to its work, with a focus on simplifying the requirements it imposes and ensuring they are proportionate.
Criminal barristers ask BSB: Are you working for the government?
Criminal law barristers have urged the Bar Standards Board to come clean on whether pressure from the government was behind its decision to launch a consultation tightening the rules on returning instructions.
Law Society loses control of SRA chair and board appointments
Control over the appointment of the next chairman of the Solicitors Regulation Authority was taken away from the Law Society yesterday after the Legal Services Board introduced new rules governing the process.
Underdog no more – National Accident Helpline targets £100m AIM float
Leading claims management company National Accident Helpline Limited has announced its intention to float on AIM, in a move which it hopes will value the business at £100m. The IPO is expected next month.
Edmonds signs off with final attack on Law Society and Bar Council “trade unions”
The outgoing chairman of the Legal Services Board has fired a parting shot at the Law Society and Bar Council – which he described as “two very strong trade unions” – for their “hostile attitude to change” and acting out of self-interest, rather than in the public interest.
Riverview Law granted ABS licence
Pioneering legal business Riverview Law has been granted an alternative business structure (ABS) licence, enabling it to own Riverview Solicitors. As of 1 June, Riverview Solicitors will merge into Riverview Law.
Quindell directors buy shares in display of confidence
Six directors of alternative business structure Quindell plc – including the chairman and vice-chairman – have invested in extra shares as a display of confidence in the company.
First4Lawyers launches ‘first CMC partnership’ with chambers
A leading claims management company (CMC) has launched what is believed to be the first ever CMC partnership with a set of chambers. First4Lawyers has struck an agreement with Exchange Chambers.
